Michael Chandler returned hearth after Arman Tsarukyan’s most up-to-date jab.

Tsarukyan has constantly poked at Chandler’s battle IQ and just lately instructed MMA Junkie that he’s a straightforward battle for Charles Oliveira. Chandler (23-8 MMA, 2-3 UFC) rematches Oliveira (34-10 MMA, 22-10 UFC) within the Nov. 16 co-main occasion at Madison Sq. Backyard in New York.

Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) is at the moment linked to a title battle with light-weight champion Islam Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) on Jan. 18 at UFC 311, though nothing is confirmed. Chandler was respectful towards Tsarukyan for probably the most half in his response however made certain to sneak in his personal jab proper on the finish.

“He’s only a younger, hungry dude making his presence be recognized,” Chandler instructed the New York Publish. “He’s matured. He’s acquired some nice wins. His final win was over Oliveira, my subsequent opponent, so he’s earned this title shot. That is going to be a rematch with him and Islam. He’s doing his factor, however yeah, he doesn’t like me, says unhealthy issues about me. After he beat Oliveira, I really went again and congratulated him. It’s a type of issues the place I don’t maintain any animosity in the direction of anyone. I’ve had my spats with Poirier.

“I’ve had my spats with these totally different guys previously. I take pleasure in competing towards folks whether or not they like me or don’t like me. I’m going to at all times function like I don’t essentially like my opponent, however I don’t have something towards him. I don’t go into the octagon with any malice or ill-will in my coronary heart. That’s the place I carry out the most effective. Like I stated, a contented fighter is a harmful fighter, and that’s my very own private anecdote of my profession to date, however Arman’s doing his factor. I want him nicely. I believe Islam completely smokes him, however not less than he’s acquired nice hair.”

Chandler is searching for redemption towards Oliveira. The pair met for the vacant light-weight title at UFC 262 in Might 2021, the place Oliveira rallied to knock out Chandler in Spherical 2.

For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC 309.